Equipment Information

Chicago Aurora & Elgin 453 is one of the last traditional interurban cars built in the United States. The CA&E ordered ten modern curve-side coaches in 1941 but the cars weren’t completed until 1945 due to World War II. Cars 451-460 featured lightweight design and newer electric control systems but could be used together with the line’s old 1920s steel coaches.

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Chicago Aurora & Elgin 453 Details

Builder: St. Louis Car Company
Year Built: 1945
Seats: 54
Length: 55ft 4in
Width: 9ft 0in
Height: 12ft 3in
Weight: 86600 lbs
Brakes: AMU
Motors: 4 GE 739A
Control: M-17KC2-19
Compressor: DH-25
Trucks: GSC
Description: Double End / Double Truck / Arch Roof / Steel Coach
Arrived: 2019
Condition: Complete / undergoing restoration / not operational

Photo gallery

CA&E 453 Ownership History

1945-1962 – Chicago Aurora & Elgin, Wheaton, IL #453
1962-2006 – Trolleyville USA, North Olmsted, OH
2006-2009 – Lake Shore Electric Railway, Cleveland, OH
2009-2019 – Electric City Trolley Museum, Scranton, PA
2019-present – Illinois Railway Museum, Union, IL

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